Where to Stay in Toronto

Here are Tokyo Journal’s recommendations on places to stay in Toronto’s buzzing entertainment district. They are all within close proximity to the CN Tower, Rogers Centre (SkyDome), Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and the Hockey Hall of Fame, as well as Toronto’s impressive theater scene, The Second City improv theater, Roy Thomson Hall, the Distillery District and fantastic restaurants for all cuisines and budgets.

Where to Stay in Toronto

Here are Tokyo Journal’s recommendations on places to stay in Toronto’s buzzing entertainment district. They are all within close proximity to the CN Tower, Rogers Centre (SkyDome), Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and the Hockey Hall of Fame, as well as Toronto’s impressive theater scene, The Second City improv theater, Roy Thomson Hall, the Distillery District and fantastic restaurants for all cuisines and budgets.

Luxury BoutiqueSoHo Metropolitan Hotel, Toronto

Here are Tokyo Journal’s recommendations on places to stay in Toronto’s buzzing entertainment district. They are all within close proximity to the CN Tower, Rogers Centre (SkyDome), Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and the Hockey Hall of Fame, as well as Toronto’s impressive theater scene, The Second City improv theater, Roy Thomson Hall, the Distillery District and fantastic restaurants for all cuisines and budgets. tj

If you want to stay in an intimate, upscale boutique hotel befitting a Hollywood A-lister, try the SoHo Metropolitan Hotel. This is a favorite for celebrities visiting for film projects or for the Toronto International Film Festival. The posh and contemporary hotel features the stylish Chinese Luckee Restaurant and Bar as well as Wahlburgers — a highly recommended gourmet burger restaurant owned by the celebrity brothers Mark, Donnie and Paul Wahlberg. Blow off some steam in the hotel’s steam rooms and fitness center, and enjoy amenities such as complimentary high-speed internet connections, laptop-friendly safes and a free morning shuttle service in luxury sedans to downtown locales.

What we love:The intimate feeling within the downtown theater and entertainment coreBeautiful marble bathrooms with heated floors (a welcome comfort in the winter)Downtown view through floor-to-ceiling windows

Award-Winning Asian LuxuryShangri-La Hotel, Toronto

The award-winning, five-star Shangri-La Hotel delights with its extravagant, Asian-accented décor and views of downtown through its floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooms combine plush comfort with convenience. There are in-room iPads for ordering room service or reserving yoga or spinning classes. Double doors open to a spacious and beautiful bathroom with a separate bath and shower, plus an expansive mirror with a built-in TV screen. Enjoy the hotel’s sauna and indoor pool, or relax in a private 42-seat screening room, complete with comfortable oversized seats. tj

What we loveAfternoon tea and dim sum in the lobby loungeLive lobby lounge entertainment in the afternoon and eveningThe superb Bosk reataurant with its Asian-influenced dishes

Casual ChicThe Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto

Ideal for the business traveler, this casual-chic hotel is not only within walking distance of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, but it also has its own convention center for 3,000 people that is attached by a glass-enclosed walkway. It’s also family friendly with a great kids program and reasonably priced eateries nearby. This Westin is no exception to the chain’s tradition of excellent customer service. It offers a hearty breakfast buffet, a luxurious Italian restaurant, a gym, an indoor pool and spa, tennis courts and a terrace with a view of Lake Ontario. tj

What we loveThe waterfront view of Lake OntarioIt's a short walk to Union StationWestin's signature Heavenly Beds

Sophisticated, Luxurious RetreatGrand Hotel and Suites, Toronto

The Grand Hotel and Suites is another celebrity favorite. It’s a hidden gem for its grandeur and its convenient yet off-the-beaten-path loca- tion. Ideal for business travelers on longer stays, the hotel offers a complimentary hot breakfast buffet, Wi-Fi, shuttles within the downtown area, a beautiful indoor atrium pool and a full service spa and fitness center. The real charm, though, lies in its rooftop patio garden with hot tubs and a panoramic view of the Toronto skyline. Historical trivia: the building was once headquarters for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. tj

What we loveHot tubs with a viewElegant and airy two-story suites with kitchen and dinettePrivate outdoor terrace

The complete article can be found in Issue #277 of the Tokyo Journal. Click here to order from Amazon.

Where to Stay in Seoul

Park Hyatt Hotel, Seoul

The Park Hyatt Hotel, Seoul is full of surprises–starting with the check-in area located on the 24 floor, at the top of the hotel. Adjacent to the reception area, guests in the lobby lounge can view the fashionable Gangnam District through the glass surrounding the indoor swimming pool. “The most spectacular views in any hotel are on the top floor,” said Janet Lim, marketing communications manager. “In most hotels, these views are only available to those who have access to the executive lounge or the expensive lounge bars, which normally dominate the upper floor of the hotel. Here the views are available to everyone.”

Where to Stay in Seoul

Park Hyatt Hotel, Seoul

The Park Hyatt Hotel, Seoul is full of surprises–starting with the check-in area located on the 24 floor, at the top of the hotel. Adjacent to the reception area, guests in the lobby lounge can view the fashionable Gangnam District through the glass surrounding the indoor swimming pool. “The most spectacular views in any hotel are on the top floor,” said Janet Lim, marketing communications manager. “In most hotels, these views are only available to those who have access to the executive lounge or the expensive lounge bars, which normally dominate the upper floor of the hotel. Here the views are available to everyone.”

The lavish, spa-inspired bathroom in my room was almost as large as the bedroom, both of which had a three-and-a-half- meter glass wall with a magical view of the Seoul skyline, stretching past the COEX (Convention and Exhibition Center) to the hills on the horizon.

Dining options at the hotel include: The Lounge, serving excellent Western and Korean dishes, the Cornerstone, which specializes in Italian-inspired dishes prepared in a wood-fired oven, and Timber House, offering Japanese cuisine. All of which are impressive.

The natural stone and wood architecture gives a sleek, modern and elegant touch to the hotel, which is in perfect harmony with the contemporary art that decorates the place. This produces an intimate and personal feeling. No tours clutter the lobby or occupy the elevators. The hotel is an island of tranquility in an ocean of bustle and noise.

Service from the multilingual staff is impeccable as the needs of guests are dealt with promptly and efficiently. I highly recommend this hotel, regardless of whether you are visiting Seoul for business or pleasure. tj

The complete article can be found in Issue #276 of the Tokyo Journal. Click here to order from Amazon.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Chic Boutique: Hotel S Roppongi

If you like the personal touch and prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of big hotels, the Hotel S is a stylish choice. Located just a short walk from Nishi Azabu crossing and near the Roppongi District of Central Tokyo, the lodging doubles as a designer hotel and residence with serviced apartments that share restaurants, a library lounge, and meeting spaces with a relaxing ambience for their international trendsetting clientele. The rooms are available in a variety of unique themes and designs such as Luxury, Japanese Style Room–Zen, Hanging Garden, Patio Room, Hollywood Twin and Four Cube. They range in size from 17-45 square meters. The bilingual staff are personable and helpful.

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Chic Boutique: Hotel S Roppongi

If you like the personal touch and prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of big hotels, the Hotel S is a stylish choice. Located just a short walk from Nishi Azabu crossing and near the Roppongi District of Central Tokyo, the lodging doubles as a designer hotel and residence with serviced apartments that share restaurants, a library lounge, and meeting spaces with a relaxing ambience for their international trendsetting clientele. The rooms are available in a variety of unique themes and designs such as Luxury, Japanese Style Room–Zen, Hanging Garden, Patio Room, Hollywood Twin and Four Cube. They range in size from 17-45 square meters. The bilingual staff are personable and helpful.

What We LoveIntimate and stylish designWalking distance to popular shopping areas and museumsGreat breakfast buffet that changes daily

Modern Tokyo Meets Old Edo: Gate Hotel Kaminarimon

THE Gate Hotel Kaminarimon is another stylish choice located adjacent to some of Tokyo’s most important historic sites. The 13th floor lobby, rest and a wonderful panorama of Tokyo’s cityscape. Just across the street from this modern hotel, with its subdued style, are the historic Kaminarimon Gate’s sculptures of Shinto deities and a four-meter-tall lantern. tj

What We LoveSpectacular viewsWalking distance to Asakusa's historic Kaminarimon Gate and Sensoji TempleShort Walk to Asakusa Station

Majestic Experience: Palace Hotel Tokyo

THE Palace Hotel Tokyo's half-century legacy combined with its full reconstruction in 2012 has resulted in an elegantly contemporary luxury hotel experience with a unique location and exemplary service. The hotel is in the heart of the city within walking distance of the economic and retail hub of Marunouchi. The rooms that face south overlook the tranquil Imperial Palace moat and gardens with a cityscape of the Tokyo Tower and modern skyscrapers in the distance. The luxury experience begins when you enter the palatial lobby and continues to your room where the bilingual hotel staff gives you a detailed guided tour of the room’s features unmatched by other hotels. Although there are a plethora of food options in the Marunouchi area, the hotel has 10 restaurants and bars and a grand breakfast buffet. tj

What We LoveMore than half the rooms feature a considerably large balcony-a remarkable feature in crowded TokyoThe breakfast buffet with tables on an outdoor terrace overlooking the Imperial Palace moatUnderground passageway that directly connects the subway station to the hotel

Luxurious, Quiet & Central: The Westin Tokyo

THE Westin Tokyo's magnificent European Classic/empire style hotel is surrounded by abundant greenery while still located within walking distance of Central Tokyo's Ebisu Station, providing easy access to Tokyo'snearby entertainment, business and tourist districts. The bilingual service is personal and the rooms are large with bathrooms that can accommodate families. The west- ern-sized suites are grand for Japanese standards. World-class cuisine and elegant ambiences can be found in the restaurants, bars and lounge.

Every aspect of The Westin is carefully designed to reflect the brand message of “For a better you.” The Westin provides healthful options and environments that indulge all of the senses, and educates guests in their well-being before, during and after their stay so that guests leave feeling better than when they arrived.

The Westin prides itself on the six pillars of its Well-Being Movement: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well and Play Well. The Tokyo Journal took a look at how the hotel fares in each of these pillars.

Sleep Well: Heavenly. The Westin’s Heavenly Bed provides a blissful sleep that makes you forget you’re away from home. Billowy down blankets, five plush pillows and sumptuous pillow-top mattress...a combination so divine, you'll never want to get out of the bed. Sleep well, and meet the challenged of the day head-on.

Eat Well: The hotel helps guests maintain a healthy lifestyle on the road with delightful and nutritious dishes. Although the adjacent Ebisu Garden Place and surrounding Ebisu area have abundant food choices, there are nine restaurant and bar options available with French, Japanese, and Cantonese cuisine. There also is a sumptuous international buffet, afternoon tea, and deli/baked good choices. The Westin features antioxidant-rich and lowcalorie SuperFoodsRx dishes packed with nutrients and energy–from whole-wheat blueberry pancakes to all-natural roasted turkey wraps and black bean hummus.

Move Well: The hotel’s fitness center, gear- lending program and local running maps allow you to keep fit while packing light (for a modest fee). WestinWORKOUT combines state-of-the-art equipment and high-performance workouts to create a customized solution for guests who are committed to maintaining an active life- style during their travels. The partner- ship with New Balance makes staying fit on the road more convenient than ever. The Westin delivers fresh, clean athletic shoes and fitness apparel right to your guestroom, for a nominal fee, through their gear lending program. The hotel also hosts a group jog with their RunWESTIN program. The Run Concierge will share interesting facts about the area.

Feel Well: The Westin’s refreshing amenities and uplifting spa treatments help guests relax after a day in bustling Tokyo. Soothing scents and botanicals with atmospheric lighting and music let you shift modes the moment you enter the hotel. The gorgeous Westin Garden allows you to unwind in a Japanese garden in the heart of Tokyo.

Work Well: The English-speaking concierge and 12 upscale meeting spaces are invaluable resources for the business traveler. The meeting rooms provide clutter-free meetings with streamlined stations of paper, pens, glasses, and water, keeping the main work area open and clear.

Play Well: The Westin Weekend allows you to enjoy late checkout on Sundays and extended breakfast hours to help your weekend last even longer. Lounge in the Heavenly Bed, energize in the WestinWORKOUT fitness studio, or treat yourself to Le Spa Parisien’s therapeutic massage, steamroom, or sauna. tj

What We LoveLuxurious and relaxing experience in central TokyoGorgerous Japanese gardenHeavenly Bed

The complete article can be found in Issue #276 of the Tokyo Journal. Click here to order from Amazon.

Travel to Las Vegas and Portland, Oregon

TJ’s hotel reviewers headed to Las Vegas and Portland to experience the best places to stay and most entertaining things to do. Here are a few of our favorites.

Travel to Las Vegas and Portland, Oregon

TJ’s hotel reviewers headed to Las Vegas and Portland to experience the best places to stay and most entertaining things to do. Here are a few of our favorites.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is known around the world for gambling, entertainment, shopping, and fine dining. However, “The Entertainment Capital of the World” is not just for the party crowd. It has fun for the whole family.

Where to Stay

Award-winning: Wynn Las VegasIt’s certainly a Wynn-Wynn situation at the classy and mature Wynn Las Vegas as the Wynn and the adjacent Encore hold more Forbes Travel Guide Five Star awards than any other independent casino resort in the world. Named after casino developer Steve Wynn, the resort has earned top Forbes, Michelin, AAA, Mobil and Zagat Survey ratings. It makes for a sophisticated stay in Vegas.

What we love:• A true luxury vacation in terms of the accommodation and casino, as well as the shopping and dining experiences• The exceptional golf course adjacent to the hotel • The spellbinding show Le Rêve

The Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas offers luxury combined with Asian-inspired sleek design and superior service. The exclusive VIP atmosphere provides a welcome escape from the bright lights and clamor of the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel, spa and Twist restaurant all received Forbes Five Star Awards in 2014.

What we love:•The 23rd floor lobby and Mandarin Bar’s stunning and dynamic panoramic view of the city•Lack of a casino means guests can enjoy faster room access while avoiding long waits for the valet•The classy valet closet provides privacy as hotel staff can pick up your laundry or drop off a newspaper without entering your room

Relaxing luxury off the Strip: JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & SpaThe Marriott resort is an excellent choice for conventioneers or a corporate retreat as its Summerlin location (15 minutes from the Vegas Strip) allows guests to get a taste of Vegas without being overwhelmed. It appeals to those who would rather be surrounded by gardens and golf courses than slot machines and neon lights. Try a Marriott suite and feel like a king for the day!

What we love:•Access to the members-only Tournament Player’s Club Golf Course next door•Quiet resort casino plus free shuttles to the Strip casinos•Enjoy an excellent breakfast buffet and then rent a cabana by the pool

What to See in Las Vegas

David CopperfieldDavid Copperfield is the most commercially successful magician in history, according to Forbes. Over the past three decades, he has been awarded 11 Guinness World records, 21 Emmy Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a knighthood by the French government. At age 57, he’s still got it. Humor, storytelling and illusions that baffle the audience from start to finish. It really is fun for the whole family. Although he does a few tongue- in-cheek adult humor jokes, he does so with such tact that you can safely bring the children along. If you see one magic show during your stay in Vegas, the greatest illusionist of our time is the one to see at the MGM Grand.

"O"Cirque du Soleil is world-acclaimed for its acrobatic theatrical productions. With “O” (eau – pronounced o – is French for “water”), the French-Canadian troupe has centered their breathtaking acrobatics around a 1.5 million gallon pool. The ever-changing dreamscape performance has such an abundance of stunts and tricks, you can easily find yourself wanting to watch the show again and again. See “O” at Bellagio. You won’t be disappointed.

Le Reve (The Dream)Very similar to “O,” but in a small- er circular theater where every seat is the best seat in the house, The Wynn’s “Le Rêve” is an aquatic acrobatic performance that keeps you on the edge of your seat with the sheer grace and physical beauty of the performers and nail-biting acrobatic feats. And like “O,” “Le Rêve” is a show you can watch repeatedly. There is action on the ground, mid- air and near the ceiling, and thus the audience gets to choose where to focus their attention.

Portland, Oregon

Portland is one of the most environmentally conscious cities in the world with abundant outdoor activities and a number of marvelous microbreweries and tasty coffee.

Things to do

• Hiking trails and parks galore• The Portland Japanese Garden – see the beautiful koi fish and in the fall, the gorgeously bright red and gold Japanese maples • Lan Su Chinese Garden • The Shakespeare in the Park summer festival and the Waterfront Blues Festival in July • Portland Saturday Market and Portland Farmers Market • Great golf at Eastmoreland and Heron Lakes (among the top 75 public courses in the U.S., according to Golf Digest)

Where to Stay

Trendy: Jupiter HotelFor a taste of Portland’s culture and local scene, try the retro-trendy Jupiter Hotel, a boutique hotel located in central Portland amid restaurants, bars, clubs and boutique shops. An older building with newly renovated rooms, each room is unique with a giant mural including such stars as Marilyn Monroe, John Lennon and even Buddha!

What We Love:• For a fun, drive-free night try the adjacent Doug Fir restaurant with great food and friendly service. The Doug Fir Burger is highly recommended! The basement club was one of Rolling Stone’s Top 20 Best Clubs in America in 2013 • Free Wi-Fi and dog friendly. You can also get free freshly brewed Portland-grown coffee in the lobby every morning • Very social atmosphere. It’s a great place to meet new people both in the hotel courtyard and at the Doug Fir

Luxury: The NinesFor a luxury hotel, try The Nines. Its location next to Pioneer Courthouse Square and the central business district allows guests to shop at nearby boutiques, dine in the trendy Pearl District, or hop on the eco-friendly MAX Light Rail to explore Portland’s beautiful gardens, museum grounds and chic neighborhoods. The hotel’s concierge team can arrange day trips to the mountains, wine country and beyond.

What We Love:• Its accolades include Condé Nast’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Travel & Leisure’s 500 list of top-rated hotels around the globe and America’s Best Affordable Hotels, The Guardian’s Top 10 Places to Eat in Portland, and more • A fascinating art collection and library of more than 3,000 books for guests • The building’s historical heritage. It has housed the flagship store and headquarters of retailer Meier & Frank, a radio station, pharmacy, pet store and deli, and it has served as Clark Gable’s pre-Hollywood place of employment

The complete article can be found in Issue #275 of the Tokyo Journal. Click here to order from Amazon.

Travel to the U.S.A.

Universal Studios, Hollywood, Scottsdale & New Orleans

TJ’s hotel reviewers headed to California, Arizona and Louisiana to experience the best places to stay and most entertaining things to do. Here are a few of our favorites.

Travel to the U.S.A.

Universal Studios, Hollywood, Scottsdale & New Orleans

TJ’s hotel reviewers headed to California, Arizona and Louisiana to experience the best places to stay and most entertaining things to do. Here are a few of our favorites.

Universal Studios Hollywood, California

Universal Studios is a must-see for all ages. One of the oldest and most famous Hollywood studios still in use, it is also an amusement park - both fascinating and educational.

Things to do:

• See how Hollywood movies are made on a studio tour• Learn how blockbusters are made at the “Special Effects stage”• Thrills, chills and spills with King Kong, Transformers, The Mummy, The Simpsons, Shrek, Jurassic Park, WaterWorld and haunted house attractions. Take pictures of your children with their favorite characters: Transformers, The Minions, The Simpsons, SpongeBob SquarePants, Shrek, Curious George, Scooby-Doo and more

Where to stay:Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City

The Hilton is just a block away from Universal Studios Hollywood’s entrance and less than 10 minutes from the historic Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theater (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theater). Other nearby attractions include the Hollywood Bowl, Pantages Theater, Hollywood and Highland Center, Griffith Park and Observatory and the Los Angeles Zoo. tj

The complete article can be found in Issue #274 of the Tokyo Journal. Click here to order from Amazon.

San Diego and Orange County

TJ’S hotel reviewers and their bicultural families headed out to Southern California to scope out some of the best places to stay and the fun things to do in San Diego and Orange County. After arriving at LAX, our families headed 45 minutes south on the 405 Freeway. First stop: Orange County. We stayed at many hotels and ate at many restaurants. Here is a list of some of our favorite things to do and places to stay in Orange County:

San Diego and Orange County

TJ’S hotel reviewers and their bicultural families headed out to Southern California to scope out some of the best places to stay and the fun things to do in San Diego and Orange County. After arriving at LAX, our families headed 45 minutes south on the 405 Freeway. First stop: Orange County. We stayed at many hotels and ate at many restaurants. Here is a list of some of our favorite things to do and places to stay in Orange County:

Where to StayCool and Hip Hotel Award Shorebreak Hotel is located next to the Huntington Beach Pier and among all the shops and restaurants in this beachside walking town. Huntington Beach is home to the U.S. Open of Surfing and is a favorite spot for surfers and beachgoers from around the world. The Shorebreak is elegant and sophisticated, yet young and hip.

What we love about it: - The location is a surfer’s paradise - Located in a shopping area near stores and restaurants - Outstanding breakfast at a reasonable price - Amazing view of Huntington Beach Surfboard and dog friendly

All in One Award Hyatt Regency Newport Beach: As you walk around the property, it is hard not to feel like you are on vacation at this Southern California resort hotel that brings the party to you. What we love about it: • Numerous pools and a water slide• Shares Back Bay resources for biking, jogging, canoeing, swimming, golf, tennis and more • Sizzling Summer Concert Series in unique and elegant lawn setting with acts like the Commodores, Michael McDonald & Jeffrey Osborne• Convenient access to the Fashion Island and South Coast Plaza shopping malls, Disneyland and the other entertainment venues listed above.

Award of Elegance and Best Dining Experience The Balboa Bay Resort & Spa offers an elegant stay and an unparalleled dining experience in its First Cabin Restaurant. It has been the resort of choice for Hollywood’s A-listers over the years including John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart, John Travolta and Jim Carey as well as presidents, politicians and business leaders. What we love about it: • Amazing restaurant: First Cabin • Rooms with wonderful view of gorgeous marina • Access to Duffy Electric Boats, paddleboards & kayaks • Easy access to elegant dining & shopping in Newport Beach • Historical elegance: Home of the prestigious Balboa Bay Club • Wonderful pool What to Do in San Diego San Diego is California’s 2nd largest city and is filled with fun adventures: • San Diego Zoo • SeaWorld • Safari Park • Legoland • Camping on the beach in Carlsbad • Balboa Park • Coronado Island • Petco Park, home of Major League Baseball’s San Diego Padres • National Football League’s San Diego Chargers • Old Town Trolley Tours • USS Midway Aircraft Museum & Maritime Museum • La Jolla Beach

Where to StayBest Golf & Hotel Combo Award Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines Hotel: Located adjacent to the world-famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, this hotel is a golfer’s paradise. Not only is Torrey Pines a world-class golf course, but it is also the nation’s foremost municipal golf course. That means you won’t need a caddy to carry your wallet as you’ll be paying public green fees. What we love about it: • Amazing room with a view of the ocean-side golf course • Located near La Jolla, San Diego’s most beautiful beach • Convenient access to San Diego’s many attractions • Large, gorgeous property with ocean views • In-house spa at Torrey Pines (sauna, steam room, etc.)

Historical Elegance Award Dating back to 1888, the Hotel del Coronado is one of Southern California’s most renowned beachfront hotel resorts. This Victorian-style hotel is a National Historic Landmark that has hosted numerous presidents, royalty and celebrities through the years including Charlie Chaplin, King Kalakaua (in 1890) and Edward Prince of Wales. The hotel was the film location for numerous movies including “Some Like It Hot” with Marilyn Monroe, and the main dining room, the Crown Room, has held state dinners, royal events and even the celebration for Lindbergh’s famous flight. What we love about it: • Activities for kids including surfing lessons, crafts and parties • Amazing Sunday Brunch in the Crown Room • Beautiful beachfront property • Notoriously haunted rooms • Many documented stories of the hotel’s rich history to explore tj

The complete article is available in Issue #273. Click here to order from Amazon

Sassy and Savvy Stay in U.S. Capital

Aloft National Harbor & Aloft Dulles North

FOR a trendy stay while visiting the historic U.S. capital, consider the Aloft National Harbor or Aloft Dulles North hotels. The hotel chain’s core values are sassy, savvy and space. Sassy stands as a contrast to stuffy hotels. Savvy is because all the hotel staff (not just the bell captain or concierge) are knowledgeable of the hotel and city. Space? Well, the hotel’s public areas are just that: extremely spacious and not cramped. The hotel chain provides incentives to join in its sustainability practices. Guests who skip everyday room cleaning receive $5 towards the Re-Fuel station (food) or Starwood points. If you need a little extra motivation while on the go, stop by the Re:charge 24/7 fitness center and download easy-to-execute a-workouts onto your laptop, iPod, iPhone, Blackberry, Treo or other handheld device.

Sassy and Savvy Stay in U.S. Capital

Aloft National Harbor & Aloft Dulles North

FOR a trendy stay while visiting the historic U.S. capital, consider the Aloft National Harbor or Aloft Dulles North hotels. The hotel chain’s core values are sassy, savvy and space. Sassy stands as a contrast to stuffy hotels. Savvy is because all the hotel staff (not just the bell captain or concierge) are knowledgeable of the hotel and city. Space? Well, the hotel’s public areas are just that: extremely spacious and not cramped. The hotel chain provides incentives to join in its sustainability practices. Guests who skip everyday room cleaning receive $5 towards the Re-Fuel station (food) or Starwood points. If you need a little extra motivation while on the go, stop by the Re:charge 24/7 fitness center and download easy-to-execute a-workouts onto your laptop, iPod, iPhone, Blackberry, Treo or other handheld device.

Aloft National Harbor (National Harbor, Maryland)MINUTES away from Washington, D.C. and Old Town Alexandria,the Aloft National Harbor is close to three major airports. The location provides access to thre different worlds: the the charm of historical Old Town Alexandria, the excitement of the sights and sounds of the nation’s capital, and the relaxing hominess of the harbor and its shops, where there’s a real feel of community. After a cab ride through the city, I crossed over the bridge into a totally different kind of area – beautiful and set apart. When I entered the hotel I expected it would be the traditional fare of any vacation destination. Instead, I was greeted with a trendy urban feel. The entrance into the hotel is a very small and bare area containing rather generic couches and an elevator (or stairs, if you prefer) to take you up to the main lobby. When the elevator doors open on the main lobby floor, you are greeted by an “industrial-chic” interior design that combines cement floors with stylish but comfortable chairs and sofas with funky pillows. In our technology-driven, Google-it-yourself world, the first things that caught my eye were the lobby iPads that can answer many of your questions. This hotel may not be for the traveler who expects a traditional concierge, bellhop and so forth. Many aspects of the hotel are self-serve. But what was traditional to me was the smile and welcoming spirit of the front desk staff. Part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, the Aloft National Harbor was the fifth Aloft Hotel opened in the U.S. and has 190 rooms, two small meeting rooms and a and shops. The innovative architecture with open rooms and high ceilings is a welcome change for the business traveler. Rooms all have free (and fast!) Wi-Fi as well as Ethernet cables. As this Aloft hotel is on the harbor, it enjoys a special relationship with boaters. It is a place where everybody knows your name. Regulars of the lobby bar are allowed to use the amenities (pool, fitness) at special rates. The National Harbor Aloft piloted the chain’s “Grab & Go” breakfast where you fill out a reservation card by midnight and your breakfast is ready for you in the morning.

The complete article is available in Issue #272. Click here to order from Amazon

AS I walked into the lobby of the Aloft Downtown Dallas hotel, I wasn’t expecting much out of the ordinary in this historic-looking, factory- type building in downtown Dallas.

AS I walked into the lobby of the Aloft Downtown Dallas hotel, I wasn’t expecting much out of the ordinary in this historic-looking, factory- type building in downtown Dallas. But I immediately did a double take. It looked like I’d wound up at a mixture of a hip nightclub, art gallery, and trendy café. Soon enough, however, I was pleasantly surprised to find I was where I wanted to be: the Aloft Downtown Dallas.

Owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts, the group that also has chains like Westin, Sheraton, W Group, Regis and Le Méridien, Aloft is an enjoyable change from the norm. I don’t usually wander hotel corridors to admire the interior design, but Aloft inspired me to do so. When I first checked into my room, I had to stroll around a few times to take it all in. After I sat down to relax, I walked around the room again just to see if I’d missed anything (which I had!). Then looking out my window across the street at the Dallas Convention Center, train station and City Hall, I was reminded how conveniently located the hotel is. For frequent travelers, hotels are a blur of similar designs. That’s not the case with Aloft. It is a lift for the senses.

Aloft is a “select” service hotel that does not have bellmen but caters to on-the- move business-savvy travelers who know what they want. The other primary segment of their clientele includes guests attending conferences at the convention center across the street.

AS I walked into the lobby of the Aloft Downtown Dallas hotel, I wasn’t expecting much out of the ordinary in this historic-looking, factory- type building in downtown Dallas.

AS I walked into the lobby of the Aloft Downtown Dallas hotel, I wasn’t expecting much out of the ordinary in this historic-looking, factory- type building in downtown Dallas. But I immediately did a double take. It looked like I’d wound up at a mixture of a hip nightclub, art gallery, and trendy café. Soon enough, however, I was pleasantly surprised to find I was where I wanted to be: the Aloft Downtown Dallas.

Owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts, the group that also has chains like Westin, Sheraton, W Group, Regis and Le Méridien, Aloft is an enjoyable change from the norm. I don’t usually wander hotel corridors to admire the interior design, but Aloft inspired me to do so. When I first checked into my room, I had to stroll around a few times to take it all in. After I sat down to relax, I walked around the room again just to see if I’d missed anything (which I had!). Then looking out my window across the street at the Dallas Convention Center, train station and City Hall, I was reminded how conveniently located the hotel is. For frequent travelers, hotels are a blur of similar designs. That’s not the case with Aloft. It is a lift for the senses.

Aloft is a “select” service hotel that does not have bellmen but caters to on-the- move business-savvy travelers who know what they want. The other primary segment of their clientele includes guests attending conferences at the convention center across the street.

The lobby has different areas to relax in: a bar, lounge and a self-serve snack and coffee area that has a “build your own” fresh and hot breakfast and complimentary coffee in the morning. All of the decor appears out of the latest interior design magazine. I don’t think I’ve ever seen rocking chairs in a hotel lobby before, but the modern-retro design made the chairs fit right in. At night, the hotel is a great place to mix and mingle by enjoying a glass of vino at the w xyz bar, or a game of pool in their re:mix lounge. Both are located in the lobby area.

There are event and meeting spaces of various sizes throughout the building. The event facilities are extremely vibrant and trendy and have been used for “After Parties” by celebrities such as Britney Spears and Jamie Foxx. The hotel is pet friendly and smoke-free. Free WiFi is available throughout the building, a pleasant change from many hotels that often charge $20 a day for Internet access. There are 24-hour business and fitness centers, an outdoor pool, onsite parking and Blink electric car charging stations. Rooms come with complimentary coffee, tea and bottled water. Standard rooms are 350 to 475 square feet with one TV. Suites are 450 to 775 square feet with a larger meeting and work area and two TVs,one in the work area and one for the bed and living area. The 42” LCD TVs have ports for connecting laptops or other electronic devices.

Aloft Hotels take part in adaptive reuse projects to provide benefits to communities in search of urban renewal opportunities, and the Aloft Downtown Dallas is no different. Built originally in 1925 as part of the Santa Fe Terminal Complex, then owned by the Haggar Clothing Co. which used the facilities to produce military uniforms during World War II, the building was renovated and opened as a hotel in 2009.

For the sustainability minded guest, there is plenty. Approximately 75 percent of the demolition debris from the renovation was reused below ground in the lower-level meeting and ballroom spaces. The hotel features natural materials including cork and sustainable wood veneers, and inshower liquid soap and shampoo dispensers replace non-biodegradable bottles to reduce landfill waste.

I highly recommend the Aloft Dallas Downtown and will definitely look for more Aloft hotels during my travels. tj

The complete article is available in Issue #271. Click here to order from Amazon

See TJ's top recommended places to stay in Seoul - a hot spot for foreign travelers, and a superior stay in Seoul!

A Superior Stay in Seoul

The Westin Chosun

The Westin Chosun Seoul is Korea’s first international hotel. This classic hotel was built in 1914 with the first running water, elevator and ice cream in the country, attracting celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Bob Hope. Rebuilt in the 1960s and fully renovated since then, The Westin Chosun is within walking distance of the headquarters of major international banks, local government offices, historic landmarks and thriving shopping districts.

The hotel has 462 guest rooms and 40 suites with the Westin Heavenly Bed, anti-allergy carpets, self-serve espresso coffee machines, mobile phones and high-speed Internet access. Guests can access a business center with state-of-the-art conference rooms and a drug store, barbershop, beauty salon and souvenir shop as well as the City Athletic Club, a Pilates studio, a swimming pool, steam and dry saunas and whirlpools. For corporate events and weddings, there is the Grand Banquet Hall, six mid-sized banquet halls and conference rooms.

See TJ's top recommended places to stay in Seoul - a hot spot for foreign travelers, and a superior stay in Seoul!

A Superior Stay in Seoul

The Westin Chosun

The Westin Chosun Seoul is Korea’s first international hotel. This classic hotel was built in 1914 with the first running water, elevator and ice cream in the country, attracting celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Bob Hope. Rebuilt in the 1960s and fully renovated since then, The Westin Chosun is within walking distance of the headquarters of major international banks, local government offices, historic landmarks and thriving shopping districts.

The hotel has 462 guest rooms and 40 suites with the Westin Heavenly Bed, anti-allergy carpets, self-serve espresso coffee machines, mobile phones and high-speed Internet access. Guests can access a business center with state-of-the-art conference rooms and a drug store, barbershop, beauty salon and souvenir shop as well as the City Athletic Club, a Pilates studio, a swimming pool, steam and dry saunas and whirlpools. For corporate events and weddings, there is the Grand Banquet Hall, six mid-sized banquet halls and conference rooms.

In all my stays at The Westin Chosun, I have found outstanding rooms, service and food. Simply put, my stays have been exceptional.

Dining and Entertainment

The hotel has six restaurants to choose from: Aria (international buffet with 10 different cooking stations), Hong Yuan (Chinese), Sushi Cho ( Japanese sushi), The Circle (pastries and drinks), The Ninth Gate Grille (international-style brasserie) and Vecchia e Nuovo (deli). I recommend the rack of lamb at the Ninth Gate Grille, where seating offers a beautiful view of the Wongudan Altar next to the hotel.

Location

The Westin Chosun Seoul is located approximately 30 minutes from Incheon International Airport and Gimpo Airport in downtown Seoul. You can check in to The Westin Chosun directly at Incheon International Airport and then go directly to your room when you arrive at the hotel.

Seoul's Hot Spot for Foreign Travelers

The Grand Hyatt

The Grand Hyatt Seoul is a hot spot for foreign travelers to Korea. Built in 1978 and fully renovated since then, the hotel is at the foot of Mt. Namsan and overlooks the Hahn River. It is in Seoul’s famed Itaewon shopping district where custom-tailored clothing can be made in as little as a day and good food can be had at many international restaurants.

A problem with the Hyatt, though, is that once you arrive you don’t want to leave. You can fill your weekend at the hotel’s bars, restaurants, gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and sauna, and by checking out the live entertainment. The Grand Hyatt Seoul has had a host of famous visitors from Queen Elizabeth to the Prince and Princess of Wales, George Bush Sr. and Bill Clinton.

The hotel has 601 rooms and suites. All rooms have either mountain or river views, plus high-speed Internet access. Guests can access the business center, hotel shops, a barbershop and a beauty salon. For the fitness-minded, there’s the Club Olympus Fitness Centre, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an ice rink and squash courts. For corporate events and weddings, there is a ballroom that can be divided into three meeting rooms, seven meetings rooms, 10 boardrooms and a pre-function and social function space.

Since 1988, the Hyatt has housed J.J. Mahoney’s, arguably the hippest nightclub in Seoul that plays a wide range of music. The club is made up of two bars. There is a dance club for young people playing the latest music, and a stage for live bands doing everything from the classic tunes of the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s to today’s Top 40. As it is such a classy location, J.J. Mahoney’s is a coveted place for bands to play. Entertainment is on seven nights a week. There’s also a poolside terrace and garden with capacity for over 100 people.

Dining and Entertainment

In addition to the Hyatt Grand Club lounge, there are 12 restaurants: Chinese, contemporary continental, sushi and tepanyaki, Japanese grill, buffet, summertime barbecue, European dining, and a European-style delicatessen. Bars include J.J. Mahoney’s (live bands and discotheque), Helicon (karaoke), and The Paris Bar, which provides a view of the city.

Local Attractions

Visitors will find the Namsan Park and walking trails near the hotel as well as the Gyeongbok Palace, Biwon Secret Garden and Duksu Palace.

Location

Located on 18 acres of waterfalls and landscaped gardens at the foot of Mt. Namsan, the Grand Hyatt Seoul is 60 minutes from Incheon International Airport, 35 minutes from Gimpo Domestic Airport, 20 minutes from the Samsung-dong business hub and 10 minutes from downtown and the Itaewon shopping district. Most of the city’s key districts are close to the hotel.